How to Put an ATV Tire on the Rim: Step-by-Step Guide for Easy Mounting

Mounting ATV tires yourself is a smart move for riders looking to save money, avoid downtime, and take control of their gear setup. Whether you're upgrading to bigger tires, swapping a rear tire, or switching out extra wheels for trail season, the process is manageable with the right tools and preparation. In this guide, we walk you through the full process of how to mount ATV tires, from safely removing the old tire to properly seating the new one on the diameter wheel.

Is It Easy to Change an ATV Tire?

Changing an ATV tire can be easy if you have the right tools, some basic knowledge, and a bit of patience. For standard tire swaps, it’s a manageable DIY job but things can get tricky when you're working with larger tires, custom wheels, or older rims that don't seat easily.

That’s where PERFEX Industries can help. Our lift kits and wheel spacers are designed to make the process easier by giving you the clearance and fitment you need. They’re perfect for DIY tire changes and upgrading to larger wheels with confidence.

Get the Clearance You Need - Explore Lift Kits for Your Ride

What You Need to Mount an ATV Tire: Tools and Setup

Before you begin the entire process of mounting an ATV tire onto a rim, it’s essential to gather the right tools and ensure your workspace is safe and stable.

Essential Tools

Tire irons or spoons for prying the stock tires
Bead breaker or impact wrench to separate the bead without damaging the rim
Mounting lubricant or hardware store tire lube to ease friction and protect the valve stem (avoid petroleum-based products)
Air compressor and tire pressure gauge to inflate the tires accurately after mounting
Valve stem core removal tool: needed to deflate and later reseal the tire
Safety gear: gloves and protective eyewear are a must to avoid injuries
Bead keeper and bead seater (optional): especially useful when working with elevated tires or larger formats

Preparation Tips

Position your ATV on a flat, stable surface (like a driveway) and chock the wheels
Inspect axle boots for wear or damage before removing tires
Ensure you're wearing proper safety gear and working in a well-lit area

Whether you're swapping out tires or upgrading to more aggressive tread, having the right equipment and setup from the start ensures safety and a smoother workflow.

Step-by-Step Tire Mounting Instructions for Your ATV

Step 1: Detach the Wheel and Deflate the Tire

Start by placing your ATV on a stable surface. Use a lug wrench to loosen the bolts securing the stock steel wheels to the ATV.
Once the entire wheel is detached, set it aside on a padded surface to prevent rim damage.
Next, remove the valve stem core using a valve core removal tool to fully deflate the current tire. This will release internal air pressure and make the next steps much easier.
Be sure the valve stem itself isn’t cracked or worn before proceeding.
Step 2: Break the Bead
Breaking the tire bead seal is essential before you can remove the tire from the wheel rim.
You can use a manual bead breaker or rely on an impact wrench for quicker results.
Be gentle—using improper force or faulty equipment can damage tire beads or warp the rims of tires, which can affect tire fit and performance.

Step 3: Remove the Old Tire

Apply a bit of tire lubricant around the tire sidewall and bead to reduce friction.
Then, use tire spoons to carefully begin prying off the tire, starting opposite the valve stem to prevent accidental damage.
Work your way slowly and evenly around the wheel rim, lifting the tire walls over the edge to fully unseat the tire.
Avoid using sharp or aggressive metal tools, as these can damage tire beads and compromise the seal, especially if you're planning to install wider tires.

For riders looking to increase clearance or enhance off-road traction, PERFEX Industries offers vehicle-specific lift kits and wheel spacers that make it easier to fit larger ATV tires without compromising safety or performance. These upgrades are engineered for a perfect fit on your existing suspension, giving you the extra room needed to accommodate aggressive tire profiles with confidence.

Upgrade Your ATV with Precision-Engineered Parts

Step 4: Clean the Rim and Prep the New Tire

Before mounting your replacement, clean the wheel rim thoroughly using water and a degreaser.
Remove any grease buildup, dirt, or debris from the bead seat area to ensure proper bead seating.
Apply a fresh coat of commercial tire lubricant or soapy water to both the rim and tire bead area.
Check the tire sidewall for directional arrows to verify alignment, especially if you're installing an aggressive mud-type tire or DOT tire with tread designed for specific rotation.
Ensuring the right tire diameter and fitment of wheels here will prevent headaches later.

Step 5: Mount the New Tire

Position the tire with the shallower side of the rim facing up.
Begin pressing the bead over the rim with your hands and guide it in place using tire spoons if needed.
A ratchet strap can help compress the tire and aid with bead seating, especially on a difficult mounting process.
If available, use a bead keeper to keep the opposite side from popping out as you work. This is particularly helpful for large-diameter tire changes.

Step 6: Inflate the Tire and Set the Bead

Once mounted, reinstall the valve stem core using a valve stem tool.
Attach a high-powered air compressor or tire inflator to begin filling the tire slowly. As the pressure increases, you’ll hear a pop or two. This indicates the bead has seated properly against the rim.
Never exceed the recommended PSI.
While some mention using starter fluid to seat a stubborn bead, it's highly dangerous and not advised unless done by a professional.

Step 7: Reinstall the Wheel

Reattach the entire wheel to your ATV.
If your vehicle has a 4-1/2 bolt pattern, be sure the bolt pattern aligns correctly.
Tighten all bolts with a torque wrench according to factory specs to ensure axles and suspension stay safe under load.

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How Do I Make Sure the New Tire is Mounted Correctly?

Mounting an ATV tire correctly is key to off-road safety and performance, especially in rugged Canadian terrains. Follow these steps to ensure proper tire installation:

Check the directional tread: Look for arrows or rotation labels on the tire sidewall to ensure proper alignment, especially for mud tires or DOT-rated models.
Match tire size to rim diameter: Make sure your replacement tires match your ATV’s rim size and bolt pattern. At PERFEX Industries, we design parts with precise vehicle-specific fitment.
Use proper tools: Employ spoon tools, a bead keeper, and a bead seater to mount the tire evenly and avoid damaging the bead (especially important when working in your garage without a tire machine).
Inspect before inflation: Ensure the tire is fully seated and even around the rim before inflating. Uneven seating can lead to bead failure, especially in cold-weather regions.

For tough installations or high-profile tires, it’s best to consult ATV specialists.

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What PSI Should I Inflate My ATV Tire To?

The correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for ATV tires depends on the tire type, load, terrain, and your ATV’s manufacturer recommendations.

Here’s how to determine the right pressure:

Check the sidewall of the tire: Most ATV tires have the maximum PSI printed on the side, commonly ranging between 5–12 PSI for standard off-road tires.
Refer to your owner’s manual: Manufacturer specs should always be your first reference, especially if you’ve upgraded to aftermarket tires or larger formats.
Adjust for terrain:
- Hard-packed trails or pavement: 7–9 PSI
- Soft terrain (mud, sand, snow): 3–5 PSI for better traction
- Hauling trailers or heavy loads: Increase PSI slightly (within limits) for added support
Use a reliable tire pressure gauge: Accuracy is key—overinflating can damage your tubeless tire, bead seat, or even cause blowouts on sharp turns.
Cold weather tip (especially for Canadian riders): Tire pressure drops in freezing temperatures, so check and adjust before each ride.

ATV Tire Pressure Guide: Find the Perfect PSI for Any Terrain!

ATV Tire Mounting Safety Tips

Mounting an ATV tire requires caution, the right tools, and a respect for safety. Keep these essential tips in mind:

Always wear gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes from sharp rims, stubborn beads, or flying debris—especially when working with spoon tools or a bead breaker.
Avoid overinflation. Different tires have specific PSI requirements. Inflating beyond the limit can cause serious injury or damage to both the wheel and the bead seal.
Never use flammable methods (like starter fluid) to seat a bead unless you're a trained professional with adequate equipment. While this trick is sometimes seen in forums or Tire Shop videos, it's highly risky and not recommended for home use.
Don't compromise safety—when in doubt, seek professional help.

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PERFEX Industries: Precision Upgrades for Confident Riding

At PERFEX Industries, we design and manufacture high-quality ATV accessories that help riders get more out of every ride. We know how important durability and performance are when you're out on the trails, which is why we focus on parts that make upgrades easier, safer, and more reliable. Our product lineup is built right here in Canada and engineered for perfect vehicle-specific fitment.

Need Help Choosing the Right Part? Contact Our Experts